7 Best Strains for Focus & Alertness
Finding the best strains for focus can help anyone who needs inspiration and drive to power through a project, task, or cram session with energy and alertness. Consumers of certain sativa strains report improved concentration, motivation, and lucidity.
Cannabis strains for focus are particularly appealing to college students, creatives, and those who need new ideas to complete the work they're doing. The dopamine released after consuming certain cannabis strains can help reduce anxiety and remove the mental obstacles that may be stopping you from progressing.
Which Are the Best Cannabis Strains for Focus?
Sativa strains are anecdotally noted to be better for focus due to their cerebral action and stimulating effects. In contrast, indicas are known for their body-heavy, relaxing effects. It’s important to keep in mind that the overall effect of each strain is affected by its terpene and cannabinoid profiles as well as its sativa/indica designation.
That said, the marijuana strains that are most frequently recommended for overcoming mental blocks and increasing focus are often high-THC sativas and sativa-dominant strains. Because high-THC strains are associated with stronger psychoactive effects, it's best to consult an expert in your local dispensary about the dosage and strain that would be most suitable for you.
From our collective experience and research, we would recommend the following strains for focus. Almost all of these strains are available in our Seattle, WA dispensaries:
1. Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel is a popular THC-dominant strain that has up to 25% THC content and is perfect for smoking or infusing in edibles. Sour Diesel is a sativa-dominant hybrid strain that is recommended as an aid for studying and is said to offer mental stimulation and broaden one’s mind.
2. Jack Herer
This sativa-dominant cannabis strain has around 24% THC and is extremely popular with creatives. With floral and herbal notes, consumers will enjoy a stimulating head high that sparks creativity and focus. For those looking for new ideas, this strain is also said to open your mind. One of the most famous high-THC strains, Jack Herer is perfect for seasoned cannabis consumers and newbies alike.
3. Durban Poison
This is a pure sativa strain that is popular for its energizing and uplifting effects. Durban Poison has THC levels ranging from 15-25%. This strain is perfect for people who are planning (or needing) a productive and active day. It is said to leave the consumer feeling focused, creative, buzzy, chatty, and social. As it is a pure sativa strain, "start low go slow" is a good approach to take. Durban Poison is best consumed in the morning.
4. Super Silver Haze
This sativa-dominant strain is said to provide a long-lasting but clear-headed buzz. With around 20% THC, Super Silver Haze leaves you feeling creative and productive and ready to face whatever the day brings.
5. Super Lemon Haze
This sativa-dominant strain offers focus, energizing effects, and a cerebral euphoria that’s perfect for artists or creatives searching for a spark of inspiration. With around 20% THC and a lemony taste, Super Lemon Haze is a potent strain everyone should try at least once.
6. Strawberry Cough
This sativa-dominant hybrid strain can be a great choice for newbies as the 15-20% THC levels in Strawberry Cough provide a pleasant and not overly potent experience. Consumers report an increase in focus, lucidity, and euphoria, and describe energizing cerebral effects that can boost creativity or help them focus on the task at hand.
7. Lucid Blue
This sativa-dominant hybrid strain has a 4:1 THC/CBD ratio that makes it perfect for days when intense concentration and attention to detail are required. This is a great strain for students who are putting in an all-nighter or are working on projects with a tight deadline. As the name suggests, Lucid Blue offers mental clarity and lucidity and can make the perfect partner for getting you across the finish line.
How Cannabis Helps with Focus
There is some scientific basis to explain why many people connect cannabis consumption with greater focus and motivation. THC has been shown to boost dopamine levels and increase neuron activity in the brain which leads to a euphoric high. Dopamine is the "feel good" hormone, meaning that elevated levels can leave you feeling more productive, focused, creative, and centered.
There is plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest that the right dose of the right strain can help people think outside the box and face tasks with an energy and determination they didn't have before. Some cannabis strains like Green Crack are popular as strains for ADHD thanks to their reputation for improving focus and drive. Many of our featured strains for focus are also included in our list of the best strains for creativity.
Best Terpenes for Focus
The chemical makeup of individual strains is key in determining that strain’s effects. Cannabis strains that are high in stimulating terpenes such as limonene and low in sedative terpenes like myrcene or humulene tend to produce more stimulating effects.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence!
Though cannabis consumers can benefit from a higher level of focus in some circumstances, for example when studying, marijuana should never be taken to stay alert while driving. Driving under the influence of cannabis is both dangerous and illegal.
A Great Sativa Can Get You in the Zone
If you're a student looking for the perfect strains for focus, or maybe need a creative boost to take you across the finishing line in your current project, look no further than your local dispensary. Finding the right strain requires an understanding of each strain’s cannabinoid and terpene profile, and an expert budtender will be more than happy to help you choose the best weed strains for you.
For new consumers wishing to boost their concentration, remember that as a rule of thumb, high-THC sativa strains are generally best for boosting focus and alertness. Start low and take periodic doses until you reach the perfect state of mind!